EPSOM resident Audrey Ardern-Jones was appointed OBE in the New Year Honours list for services to cancer genetics nursing care at The Royal Marsden Hospital.

The former senior clinical nurse specialist continued as an associate lecturer in cancer genetics and as chair of The Royal Marsden's Arts Forum despite retiring four years ago.

She said: “I am overwhelmed and honoured and thank everyone who enabled me to receive this award.

"The Royal Marsden has a culture of dedication and care where nurses are encouraged to innovate and make a difference.

"I dedicate this award to the patients I have cared for and to my oncology colleagues both at The Royal Marsden and others worldwide.”

Mrs Adern-Jones joined the hospital as a research sister in 1993 to set up the now worldwide research project, the UK genetic prostate study, with Professor Ros Eeles, a consultant in cancer genetics and clinical oncology.

The pair also set up the genetics service at Chelsea's Royal Marsden Hospital, gaining the Pfizer BOA oncology commendation in 2009, and in 1996 she became the first clinical nurse specialist in cancer genetics at the trust.

She has published and spoken at conferences both nationally and internationally, set up support groups and education days and has served on several Department of Health committees as well as advising on policy and education bodies in the UK and Europe.